Ann,

Thanks for your question.

Zetia (generic - ezetimibe) differs from other medication (such as statins) used in the treatment of elevated cholesterols.  Statins work in the liver by inhibiting the production of cholesterol.  Zetia, on the other hand is a Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitor and works in the intestine by blocking the absorption of cholesterol.  Cholesterol is constantly being absorbed in the GI tract from the foods we eat, as well as the cholesterol found in bile.  By blocking its absorption, it lowers cholesterol.  Zetia can be used alone, or in combination with statin medications.

Zetia is not available in generic and is only available in 10 mg. tablets.

I hope this has been helpful.

Martin Cane, M.D.